Hepatitis C is a virus that is transmitted in the blood. It can cause chronic liver disease. Virginia Mason's Liver Center of Excellence in the Digestive Disease Institute is dedicated to progressive and innovative management of liver disorders, including chronic hepatitis B and C. Patients benefit from a clinic dedicated to hepatitis C, and from participating in national clinical trials that use new medications for chronic hepatitis B and C through research protocols.
To schedule an appointment with Virginia Mason's Liver Center specialists, call (206) 223-2319.
Individuals with chronic hepatitis C may not show signs of symptoms for years. However, when symptoms occur they may include:
Your liver specialist, or hepatologist, will first perform a medical history and physical exam, and will listen to a description of your symptoms. He or she may suspect hepatitis C based on your signs and symptoms. You may have several tests and procedures to obtain a diagnosis and determine the extent of liver damage, including:
Although hepatitis C can be very serious, with consistent care and monitoring, most people can manage the disease and lead active, full lives. While in the past it was difficult to treat hepatitis C and the medications available were toxic, it is now possible to cure hepatitis C with safe, all-oral medications.
Treatment of hepatitis C can often cure the disease. It will vary depending on the severity of liver damage, the type (genotype) of hepatitis C and other health conditions. Each of six genotypes of hepatitis C virus respond differently to treatment, so your hepatologist will first determine the genotype, in order to guide treatment decisions.
Oral medications, known as direct acting antivirals, directly attack and help kill hepatitis C in the body. They are highly effective in over 90 percent of cases, and are very well tolerated with few side effects. There are now several different options for treatment. The choice of regimen will depend on the genotype, and the duration of treatment depends on prior treatment for hepatitis C as well as stage of liver disease.
Patients with chronic hepatitis who have a severely compromised liver (from scarring associated with inflammation) or liver failure may be candidates for a liver transplant. Virginia Mason maintains a close working relationship with the University of Washington (UW) Medical Center for patients who may need a liver transplant.
Your hepatologist will likely recommend lifestyle changes to help you avoid further damage to your liver and to protect others you come in contact with. These recommendations may include:
If you have hepatitis, you can live a longer, healthier life by bringing positive changes into your daily routine. These include getting enough exercise, eating the right foods and getting plenty of rest.